Optimists seek Essay Contest participants

VW independent/submitted information

The Optimist Club of Van Wert is encouraging area students to participate in the Optimist International essay contest for the 2019-2020 school year.  The contest is open to all Van Wert county students who are under the age of 19 as of October 1 of this year and are not enrolled as a degree seeking student of a post-secondary institution.  

The topic for this year’s competition: “Is Optimism the Key to Achieving the Dreams You Imagine?”.  

The essay contest entry deadline is Friday, February 14. The Van Wert Optimist Club will judge local students’ essays and determine the top winners. 

Local winners will receive medallions, along with cash awards of $300 (first place) and $150 (second place).  Additionally, participants also have the opportunity to win a scholarship as the winning essay will advance to the district contest to compete for a $2,500 scholarship and a plaque. 

Students wanting to participate in the essay contact can receive application information and additional details by contacting their English teacher or guidance counselor or by contacting Rachel Galloway Davis, club essay chair, at rachellgalloway@eaton.com.  Completed applications will be picked up from local schools on February 14 and home school students must email the club essay chair by 5 p.m. or have mailed the essay (address on application) with a postmark date no later than February 14. 

The Optimist Club of Van Wert sponsors many local youth programs and conducts positive service projects.  The goal of Optimist is to encourage students to bring out the best in themselves and others. To learn more about the club for membership interest contact Ray Able, secretary-treasurer, at 419.238.5086.